Ask a Pro

What’s a low-odour finish for tongue and groove pine boards?

I just covered the walls in a basement room with tongue and groove pine boards. What would be a good, non-smelly finish for them? I do not mind having to reapply the finish every few years.

—Stephen Miller

This is an easy one: Water-based polyurethane will be your best bet. It is virtually odourless, dries very quickly, is tough enough for walls, and cleans up well with soap and water. One or two coats, applied by brush or roller, should last for years. Touch-ups are easy as well.

Ryan Shervill is a field editor and contributor to Outdoor Canada, as well as an avid hunter and shooter. He is also Canadian Home Workshop’s online Ask a Pro and contributing editor.